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Triumph Divergent Qualify Digital Aircraft Components for Aerospace

Triumph Group and Divergent Technologies achieve FAA certification for 3D-printed aircraft components using AI-driven digital manufacturing platform DAPS™.

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Triumph and Divergent Qualify Manned Aircraft Component: A Leap Toward Digital Aerospace Manufacturing

The aerospace industry is in the midst of a transformative shift, driven by the need for faster production, reduced costs, and lighter, more efficient aircraft components. A recent milestone in this evolution is the announcement by Triumph Group, Inc. and Divergent Technologies, Inc. of their successful qualification of critical manned aircraft components using the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS™). This partnership marks a significant step forward in the adoption of digital aerospace manufacturing in aerospace applications.

By combining Triumph’s decades-long aerospace engineering expertise with Divergent’s cutting-edge digital manufacturing platform, the collaboration aims to address long-standing industry challenges such as supply chain bottlenecks, high production costs, and slow development cycles. The qualification of these components not only validates the reliability and performance of additive manufacturing in regulated aerospace environments but also signals a broader industry trend toward digital transformation.

Revolutionizing Aerospace Manufacturing Through Digital Innovation

The Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS™)

The Divergent Adaptive Production System, or DAPS™, is a fully integrated digital manufacturing platform. It combines AI-driven design, industrial-scale additive manufacturing (3D printing), and robotic assembly into a single, streamlined system. This approach allows for the rapid development of complex structures that are traditionally time-consuming and costly to produce using legacy methods such as casting or forging.

In the case of Triumph’s gearbox component, the DAPS™ platform enabled a seamless transition from design to prototype to production-ready structure. This was achieved through a digital toolchain that delivered “first-time-right” components, meaning the parts met performance and quality benchmarks without requiring iterative redesigns or tooling adjustments.

According to Divergent CEO Lukas Czinger, “This qualification process of safety-critical components for manned aircraft represents a significant step forward in our mission to transform the global industrial base with fully digital, adaptive engineering and manufacturing.”

“DAPS™ is capable of rapidly delivering demanding aerospace applications that require the highest levels of performance and reliability.”, Lukas Czinger, CEO, Divergent Technologies

Triumph’s Role and Strategic Vision

Triumph Group, a longstanding player in the aerospace sector, brings traditional manufacturing rigor and regulatory expertise to the table. With operations based in Park City, Utah, Triumph’s Geared Solutions division has been instrumental in integrating Divergent’s digital capabilities into existing aerospace workflows. The partnership is currently focused on qualifying and producing approximately 100 units of critical components over the next two years.

These components are undergoing rigorous validation and will be certified by regulatory authorities for use in high-performance, manned aircraft. This ensures compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other international safety standards. Pete Gibson, President of TRIUMPH Geared Solutions, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: “Developing additive manufacturing solutions to support new designs, active production programs, and aftermarket, we are working together with velocity.”

Triumph is also exploring broader applications of DAPS™ across multiple product lines, indicating a long-term commitment to embedding digital manufacturing into its core operations. This approach aligns with Triumph’s strategic aim to enhance customer responsiveness, reduce lead times, and increase design flexibility.

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Industry Context and Market Implications

The aerospace industry is increasingly adopting additive manufacturing to meet evolving demands for efficiency and sustainability. According to Grand View Research, the aerospace 3D printing market is projected to reach $11.38 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 20.6% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is fueled by the technology’s ability to reduce part counts, lower aircraft weight, and streamline production workflows.

Experts suggest that additive manufacturing can reduce part counts by up to 70% and production costs by 30-40%, while also improving performance through optimized geometries not achievable with traditional methods. These benefits are particularly relevant as the industry seeks to meet stricter environmental regulations and improve fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, the successful qualification of manned aircraft components using DAPS™ demonstrates the maturity of digital manufacturing platforms in meeting stringent aerospace standards. This sets a precedent for broader adoption across commercial aviation, defense, and emerging sectors such as urban air mobility.

Challenges and Opportunities in Scaling Digital Manufacturing

Regulatory Hurdles and Certification

One of the primary challenges in deploying additive manufacturing in aerospace is meeting the rigorous regulatory requirements. Components must undergo extensive testing to ensure they meet safety, durability, and performance standards. The FAA has developed advisory circulars to guide the certification of 3D-printed parts, but the process remains complex and time-intensive.

Triumph and Divergent’s success in qualifying components for manned aircraft demonstrates that these hurdles can be overcome with the right combination of engineering discipline and technological innovation. Their achievement may help pave the way for streamlined certification processes in the future, particularly as regulatory bodies gain more experience with digital manufacturing technologies.

This milestone also builds confidence among other aerospace manufacturers considering similar transitions. The ability to certify mission-critical components opens the door for broader applications, including structural parts, engine components, and even full airframe assemblies.

Supply Chain Resilience and Speed

Traditional aerospace manufacturing is often hampered by long lead times, complex supply chains, and limited flexibility. By contrast, digital manufacturing platforms like DAPS™ offer a more agile and responsive model. Components can be designed, printed, and assembled in a fraction of the time, reducing dependency on external suppliers and mitigating risks associated with global disruptions.

This is particularly relevant in the current geopolitical climate, where supply chain resilience has become a strategic imperative. The Triumph-Divergent partnership illustrates how digital manufacturing can serve as a hedge against such vulnerabilities, offering localized, on-demand production capabilities.

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Moreover, the scalability of DAPS™ allows manufacturers to ramp up production quickly in response to demand fluctuations, an advantage that could redefine aerospace supply chain strategies in the years to come.

Future Applications and Industry Transformation

The implications of this partnership extend beyond the immediate qualification of components. As more aerospace companies adopt digital manufacturing, we may see a fundamental shift in how aircraft are designed and built. Modular architectures, generative design, and AI-driven optimization could become standard practices, enabling more innovative and efficient airframes.

In the long term, this could facilitate the development of next-generation aircraft for commercial, military, and even space applications. The flexibility of platforms like DAPS™ also makes them well-suited for emerging markets such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

With continued investment and collaboration, digital manufacturing could become the backbone of a more sustainable, agile, and innovative aerospace industry.

Conclusion

The qualification of manned aircraft components by Triumph and Divergent represents a pivotal moment in aerospace manufacturing. It validates the use of digital and additive technologies in one of the most safety-critical sectors and opens the door for broader adoption across the industry. By leveraging the strengths of both companies, this partnership showcases what’s possible when traditional engineering meets modern innovation.

As the aerospace sector continues to evolve, collaborations like this will be instrumental in shaping the future. From reducing production costs and lead times to enabling entirely new aircraft designs, digital manufacturing is poised to redefine the way we build and fly. The Triumph-Divergent initiative is not just a technical achievement, it’s a glimpse into the future of aerospace.

FAQ

What is DAPS™?
DAPS™ stands for Divergent Adaptive Production System, a fully digital manufacturing platform that integrates AI design, 3D printing, and robotic assembly.

Why is this qualification significant?
It marks one of the first instances where manned aircraft components produced with additive manufacturing have been certified for use, validating the technology’s maturity and reliability.

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Who benefits from this partnership?
Aerospace manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and end-users benefit through faster production, lower costs, and improved component performance.

Sources: Divergent, Triumph Group, Divergent Technologies, FAA Advisory Circular, Grand View Research, Aviation Week & Space Technology

Photo Credit: Divergent

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MRO & Manufacturing

Airinmar Extends Aircraft Warranty Services Contract with Air Methods

Airinmar signs a multi-year extension with Air Methods to manage aircraft warranty and value engineering services for its 450+ fleet.

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This article is based on an official press release from Airinmar.

Airinmar Secures Multi-Year Service Extension with Air Methods

Airinmar, a subsidiary of AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), has officially signed a multi-year extension to provide aircraft warranty management and value engineering services to Air Methods, one of the largest civilian helicopters operators in the world. According to the company’s announcement, this agreement prolongs a partnership that originally began in August 2020, reinforcing a strategic focus on cost efficiency and supply chain optimization.

The extended contract covers a massive fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft used primarily for emergency air medical transport. Under the terms of the agreement, Airinmar will continue to manage warranty entitlements, identifying, claiming, and recovering costs from manufacturers, while also providing value engineering support to ensure maintenance expenses remain aligned with fair market values.

Scope of Services and Operational Impact

The renewal highlights the increasing importance of outsourced technical management in the aviation sector. Airinmar’s role involves a comprehensive review of component repairs and warranty opportunities. By leveraging historical data and engineering expertise, the company aims to reduce the total cost of ownership for Air Methods’ diverse fleet.

Warranty Management and Value Engineering

According to the press release, the services provided include:

  • Warranty Management: The systematic identification and recovery of warranty claims for rotorcraft and aircraft components, ensuring the operator maximizes entitlements from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
  • Value Engineering: A cost-control process that analyzes repair quotes, labor rates, and material costs to prevent overcharging and ensure repairs are economically viable compared to replacement.

Jay Mahen, Senior Vice President of Operations at Air Methods, emphasized the importance of this partnership in maintaining operational readiness for their critical missions.

“We will continue to leverage Airinmar’s comprehensive engineering knowledge and expertise to help optimize our supply chain to provide safe and reliable lifesaving emergency air medical care.”

Jay Mahen, SVP of Operations, Air Methods

Strategic Context: Efficiency in a Post-Restructuring Era

AirPro News Analysis

While the press release focuses on the continuation of services, the timing of this extension is significant when viewed against the broader financial backdrop of Air Methods. As reported in public financial disclosures, Air Methods successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late December 2023, shedding approximately $1.7 billion in debt. The company is currently navigating a “transformation journey” under new ownership, with a sharp focus on operational efficiency and profitability.

In our view, extending a contract with a specialist like Airinmar aligns perfectly with this post-restructuring strategy. For large fleet operators, the administrative burden of tracking warranties across thousands of components can be overwhelming. Outsourcing this function allows Air Methods to recover funds that might otherwise be lost to administrative oversight, directly improving the bottom line without compromising safety.

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Furthermore, the aviation maintenance (MRO) sector is currently facing inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints. By utilizing “value engineering,” operators can scrutinize third-party vendor quotes more effectively, ensuring they are not paying inflated prices for parts or labor, a critical capability for maintaining an aging fleet of 450 aircraft.

About the Companies

Airinmar has operated for over 40 years and is a global leader in component repair cycle management. Based in Berkshire, England, it was acquired by AAR CORP., a major provider of aviation services to commercial and government customers worldwide. AAR CORP. recently reported record sales of $2.8 billion for Fiscal Year 2025, driven largely by demand for aftermarket solutions.

Air Methods is the leading air medical service provider in the United States. Operating from approximately 275 bases across 47 states, the company delivers lifesaving care to more than 100,000 people annually, functioning essentially as a “flying ICU.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Value Engineering” in aviation maintenance?

Value engineering in this context refers to the analysis of repair costs and methods to improve value. It involves verifying that repair quotes align with market rates, determining whether a component should be repaired or replaced based on reliability and cost, and ensuring that repair shops do not perform unnecessary work.

How large is the Air Methods fleet?

According to the press release and company data, Air Methods operates a fleet of over 450 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

When did the partnership between Airinmar and Air Methods begin?

The original agreement was signed in August 2020. This recent announcement marks a multi-year extension of that initial contract.

Sources

Photo Credit: AAR Corp.

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MRO & Manufacturing

Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Expand Engineering Capabilities

Brookhouse Aerospace acquires Parker Precision to integrate CNC turning, milling, and grinding capabilities, enhancing supply chain services in the UK.

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This article is based on an official press release from Brookhouse Aerospace.

Brookhouse Aerospace Acquires Parker Precision to Strengthen Supply Chain Capabilities

Brookhouse Aerospace, a leading independent manufacturer of composite and metallic aero-structures based in Darwen, Lancashire, has officially announced the acquisition of Parker Precision. The move represents a significant step in Brookhouse’s strategy to vertically integrate its supply-chain and expand its internal engineering capabilities.

According to the company’s press release, the acquisition of the Wolverhampton-based precision engineering firm will allow Brookhouse to offer a more comprehensive “build-to-print” service to the aerospace and defence sectors. Parker Precision, known for its expertise in CNC turning and milling, will continue to operate from its existing facility in Bilston, retaining its 35-strong workforce.

Strategic Expansion and Vertical Integration

The acquisition is described by Brookhouse leadership as a “strategic fit” designed to bring critical precision engineering processes in-house. By integrating Parker Precision’s capabilities, specifically Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, Brookhouse aims to reduce reliance on external suppliers for these specific processes and offer a complete supply chain solution.

Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace, emphasized the value this addition brings to the group’s service portfolio:

“We are delighted to welcome Parker Precision into the Brookhouse Aerospace group. This acquisition is an excellent strategic fit, enhancing our capabilities with Precision CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding, building on our strategy of providing a complete supply chain solution.”

, Matthew Rossiter, CEO of Brookhouse Aerospace

Rossiter further noted that the acquisition not only secures a skilled workforce but also opens access to new customer bases while strengthening the value proposition for existing clients.

Operational Continuity and Regional Growth

Parker Precision, founded in 1952, has a long history of manufacturing, evolving from small tools for the lock industry to high-precision aerospace components. Under the new ownership structure, the company will function as a subsidiary of the Brookhouse Aerospace group. Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision, expressed optimism about the stability the deal provides:

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“The successful completion of this acquisition provides future certainty for our team. As part of Brookhouse, we look forward to the opportunity to further enhance our capabilities and capacity, to deliver customer requirements, advance expertise in key markets and grow the business.”

, Marc Corns, Managing Director of Parker Precision

The deal connects two major UK manufacturing hubs: Brookhouse’s stronghold in the North West Aerospace Alliance region and Parker’s base in the Midlands. This regional synergy is expected to support the group’s mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing the aerospace and defence industries.

Investment in Manufacturing Excellence

This acquisition follows a period of significant investment for Brookhouse Aerospace. The company recently opened a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire, known as Balle Mill. According to verified industry reports, the company has invested heavily in new machinery to increase capacity.

Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace, framed the acquisition as a logical progression following these internal investments:

“Following our recent investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire and the installation of significant new machining capabilities, the acquisition of Parker Precision is just the next step in our mission to build a leading mid-market company servicing aerospace and defence industries.”

, Kenny Worth, Executive Chairman of Brookhouse Aerospace

Worth also indicated that the company remains in growth mode, stating that they “continue to evaluate, and are actively seeking, suitable additional opportunities.”

AirPro News Analysis

The acquisition of Parker Precision by Brookhouse Aerospace highlights a broader trend of consolidation within the aerospace supply chain. As Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) increasingly demand “one-stop-shop” solutions to reduce logistical complexity and risk, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers are under pressure to expand their internal capabilities.

By acquiring a specialist like Parker Precision, Brookhouse effectively secures its upstream supply chain for machined components. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control and potentially faster turnaround times, critical factors in the competitive aerospace and defence markets. Furthermore, retaining the Parker Precision brand and workforce suggests a strategy of stability rather than aggressive restructuring, preserving the specialized skills that make the target company valuable in the first place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Parker Precision specialize in?

Parker Precision specializes in precision CNC engineering, including CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and 5-Axis Grinding. They serve sectors such as Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Defence, Electronics, and Medical.

Will Parker Precision move its operations?

No. According to the announcement, Parker Precision will continue to operate from its current base in Bilston, Wolverhampton, as part of the Brookhouse Aerospace group.

How many employees does Parker Precision have?

Parker Precision employs 35 people, all of whom are being retained following the acquisition.

Who owns Brookhouse Aerospace?

Brookhouse Aerospace is owned by Nord Aerospace Holdings (specifically Nord Aerospace Bidco Limited).

Sources

Photo Credit: Brookhouse Aerospace

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MRO & Manufacturing

GA Telesis Expands Asia-Pacific Reach with South Korean Approval

GA Telesis Engine Services secures South Korean MOLIT certification to offer engine overhaul services and signs new deal with MIAT Mongolian Airlines.

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This article is based on an official press release from GA Telesis.

GA Telesis Engine Services Secures South Korean Regulatory Approval, Expands APAC Footprint

GA Telesis Engine Services (GATES), the Helsinki-based engine maintenance subsidiary of GA Telesis, has announced a major expansion of its operational capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. According to an official company press release, GATES has received Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) certification from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT). This certification authorizes the facility to perform full overhaul services on specific engine models for South Korean airlines.

In a simultaneous development, the company confirmed a new engine maintenance agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines. These announcements mark a strategic push by GATES to establish itself as a primary independent alternative to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) facilities in a region heavily reliant on narrowbody aircraft.

Breaking Barriers in the South Korean Market

The newly acquired MOLIT approval is a critical regulatory milestone for GATES. Under South Korea’s Aviation Safety Act, foreign repair stations must undergo a rigorous audit of their quality control systems and technical procedures before they are permitted to release South Korean-registered aircraft to service. By securing this certification, GATES can now bid directly for heavy maintenance contracts with South Korean carriers without requiring third-party approvals.

Authorized Engine Types

According to the press release, the MOLIT approval covers full overhaul authority for three major engine types:

  • CFM56-5B: Powering the Airbus A320ceo family.
  • CFM56-7B: Powering the Boeing 737NG family.
  • CF6-80C2: Powering widebody aircraft such as the Boeing 747, 767, and Airbus A330.

This scope is particularly significant given the composition of the South Korean commercial fleet. Market data indicates that the CFM56-7B is the primary engine for the country’s low-cost carriers (LCCs), including Jeju Air, T’way Air, and Jin Air, which operate substantial fleets of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Additionally, the CF6-80C2 remains in service with major carriers like Asiana Airlines and Korean Air for their widebody operations.

“This approval allows us to bring our world-class engine maintenance solutions directly to South Korean airlines, offering them a competitive alternative for their fleet requirements.”

, Statement from GA Telesis Press Release

Strategic Partnership with MIAT Mongolian Airlines

Alongside the regulatory news, GATES announced a definitive agreement with MIAT Mongolian Airlines for the maintenance of its CFM56-7B engines. MIAT, the national flag carrier of Mongolia, operates a fleet centered around the Boeing 737-800. This contract underscores the technical capabilities of the Helsinki facility and provides MIAT with a maintenance partner located strategically between its Asian and European route networks.

The agreement validates GATES’ strategy of targeting operators who require flexible, cost-effective maintenance solutions outside of the traditional OEM network. By utilizing the Helsinki facility, MIAT gains access to a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) environment while maintaining logistical efficiency for its fleet.

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AirPro News Analysis

The Rise of Independent MROs in Asia

The entry of GATES into the South Korean market represents a shift in the regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) landscape. Historically, South Korean airlines have relied heavily on OEM-affiliated shops, such as the Korean Air Tech Center, or major regional players like ST Engineering. These relationships often come with rigid pricing structures and capacity constraints.

As an independent provider, GATES is positioned to compete on turnaround time (TAT) and workscope flexibility. For LCCs operating on tight margins, the ability to perform targeted repairs, rather than mandatory full overhauls, can result in significant cost savings. The “hospital shop” concept, which focuses on surgical repairs to return engines to service quickly, is likely to appeal to carriers like T’way Air and Jeju Air as their fleets age and maintenance events become more frequent.

Furthermore, the timing of the MOLIT approval coincides with a high demand for CFM56 shop visits globally. As supply chain issues continue to plague the new engine market (LEAP and GTF), airlines are holding onto older aircraft longer, increasing the need for reliable maintenance capacity for legacy engines like the CFM56 and CF6.

Facility Capabilities and Global Reach

The GATES facility is located at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. According to company data, the site spans 180,000 square feet and features an integrated test cell capable of handling engines with up to 100,000 lbs of thrust. The facility has an annual capacity of approximately 200 engines.

With the addition of the South Korean MOLIT certification, GATES now holds approvals from major global regulators, including:

  • FAA (United States)
  • EASA (European Union)
  • CAAC (China)
  • TCCA (Canada)
  • GACA (Saudi Arabia)

This broad regulatory portfolio allows the company to serve a diverse customer base across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, reinforcing its status as a premier independent engine maintenance provider.

Sources

Photo Credit: GA Telesis

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